This talk, delivered by psychologist Kori Dyah Wiratikta, explores the struggles of living with a perfectionist mindset in an imperfect world. Through personal stories and reflections, she explains how perfectionism often traps us in a rigid “black and white” way of thinking that prioritizes flawless results, leaving us feeling inadequate and unsafe when life inevitably strays from plan. She reframes perfectionism as a survival mechanism born from our desire for control and security, but also emphasizes that true growth comes from mistakes, resilience, and the courage to rise again. Redefining failure not as falling short, but as choosing to stop trying, she encourages embracing imperfection as space for learning and balance. Ultimately, she proposes a new meaning of “perfection”: not flawlessness, but harmony, moderation, and the ability to feel “enough” while continuously progressing through life’s uncertainties. A clinical psychologist devoted to helping others heal, grow, and find clarity within. A graduate of Universitas Padjadjaran, Kori now focuses on children’s and adolescent’s mental health at Rumah Sakit Hermina Arcamanik and Rumah Sakit Edelweiss Bandung. With a compassionate and empowering approach, she focuses on helping young individuals understand their self-worth, embrace their unique strengths, and set realistic, meaningful goals. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx